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The Japanese school year begins in April, not in September like in the United States and other countries. The first term ends on July 20th, when summer vacation begins. Kids return to school in early September for the second term, which lasts until about December 25. The final term begins in January and finishes in March.
Most people think spring is the perfect time to start new things. Kids get excited and are full of expectations when the new school year begins. April is also the time when cherry blossoms are in full bloom. So when people think about the new school year and the start of a career, they often think of these beautiful blossoms. Many schools have cherry trees growing on their grounds, and parents like taking pictures of their kids entering school for the first time under the light-pink blossoms.
